ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – College of The Albemarle (COA) proudly celebrates the recent accomplishments of graduates at Pasquotank Correctional Institution. In May, eight students successfully completed the Food Service Technology programs, marking a significant milestone in their educational and professional journeys. Three students also completed their high school equivalency.
The Food Service Technology program, offered in both the spring and fall semesters, is designed to introduce students to the food service industry and equip them with the skills necessary for entry-level positions in industrial, institutional, or commercial food service operations. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including Introduction to Foodservice, Foodservice Sanitation, Foodservice Skills I and II, Quantity Baking I and II, Menu Planning, and Purchasing & Cost Control.
Upon completion of the program, graduating students receive certificates. Additionally, students take the National ServSafe Manager test, and those who pass earn a five-year certification. Graduates are also eligible for admission to an apprenticeship program available at Pasquotank Correctional Institution and partner facilities.
Gus Eddins, COA’s Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for Food Service Technology at Pasquotank Correctional Institution (PCI), shared, “This program allows students to express their creativity while developing valuable, hands-on skills. It’s about more than learning recipes; it’s about discovering purpose and potential. Our students leave with greater confidence, practical experience, and a stronger belief in what they can achieve moving forward.”
“Programs like this are truly transformative,” said Dr. Kimberly Gregory, COA Director of College and Career Readiness. “They offer students more than educational opportunities—they provide a pathway to hope and a brighter future. I’m incredibly proud of our graduates and the determination they’ve shown in taking this important step toward a new chapter in their lives.”
Since December 2000, COA has awarded 381 certificates and 108 diplomas to students at Pasquotank Correctional Institution.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 (pictured below): (top row, from left) Stephen Bender, Kenya Eaton; (2nd row, from left) John Hayes, Darius Jackson; (3rd row, from left) Hayden Norris, Jemen Portis; (bottom row, from left) Andrew Weckesser and Jonathan Young. Graduates are pictured with College of The Albemarle President Dr. Jack Bagwell (left) and Pasquotank Correctional Institution Warden Daniel Everett (right).
Students receiving High School Equivalency/Adult High School diplomas include Jeremy Campbell (left photo) and Arturo Valenzuela (right photo). In both photos, graduates are pictured with College of The Albemarle President Dr. Jack Bagwell and Pasquotank Correctional Institution Warden Daniel Everett. One additional student earned a high school equivalency diploma but is not pictured.
For information or media inquiries, please contact Tammy W. Sawyer, COA Director of Communications and Marketing, at 252-335-0821, ext. 2420, or [email protected].